Sentence Frames Strategy

Introduction

Hi everyone! Today, I'd like to talk about the Sentence Frames strategy.

I'd use this activity to teach the language function of connecting ideas, which is used across all subjects, from science to social studies.

Topic Example: City Life vs. Country Life

Let's imagine our topic is comparing city life to country life.

Step 1: Brainstorming

I'd start with a quick brainstorm. I'd show pictures of both settings and we'd create a word bank together with words like:

• skyscrapers
• farms
• quiet
• crowded
• animals (cat, dog, cow, horse)

Step 2: Introducing Sentence Frames

I'd put the frames on the whiteboard or as a digital slide using Jamboard or Padlet.

We'll start with three key conjunctions:

BECAUSE Introduces a reason or cause

BUT Introduces a contrast (highlight the comma!)

SO Introduces an effect or result

The frames would be:

Step 3: Modeling

I'd show them how it's done with examples:

Step 4: Student Practice

Students practice with partners, saying their sentences out loud to build speaking confidence.

For writing, I'd ask for examples about places they live in. Making it personal helps memorize the structure.

Reflection: Advantages

The biggest advantage of sentence frames is scaffolding. They give students structure to share ideas without getting stuck on grammar.

They're flexible for different levels:

• Beginning students: Focus on filling in single words
• Intermediate students: Encourage more detail
• Advanced students: Challenge with nesting frames
• Children: Turn into a game with pictures
• Adults: Connect to real-world tasks

Reflection: Disadvantages

The main disadvantage is avoiding over-reliance. The goal is to eventually remove the training wheels!

I address this by slowly making frames less specific, moving from full frames to just prompts or questions.

Conclusion

Sentence frames are a simple, powerful tool that makes complex language accessible to everyone.

Thanks for watching!